Four Strategic Genorosity Lessons ( Zuckerberg)

After reading this article, “Four Strategic Generosity Lessons,” by Rosebeth Kanter, it makes me think that Zuckerberg donated 100 million to the Newark public schools to just do a “nice” gesture to get his name in the public eye and to be observed and looked upon as being a leader.  The article is arguing that a gift in real life may not be a give if it is forced out of you.  In the article, it states, “And generosity is sometimes resented, as a display of conspicuous philanthropy, showing that you have more than someone else to begin with, which is a matter not to be discussed in polite company. Even if you have it, don't flaunt it.”

 I feel that Zuckerberg is an intelligent, deliberating young man who clearly does have the money to help out the less fortunate and is therefore going to take that into consideration and do a good deed.  He’s new in the business world, and as a leader, he wants to get his name out there as being someone perceived by his followers as someone who has legitimate power.  Gates and Buffet were already donating money before anyone asked them to and people think that Zuckerberg just jumped on the bandwagon. I also firmly agree with this quote stated in the article, “Some gifts get returned. Others bring returns. Knowing the difference is important to make generosity a strategic skill.” After thinking this through, donating money truly does look good on the leader’s plate and will in fact bring rewards.

Please, check out this article, and leave some insight on what you think Zuckerberg’s intentions are by donating that large sum of money to the public school.

http://www.businessweek.com/managing/content/dec2010/ca20101214_945792.htm 

-Steve Fagiano